Everyone produces earwax, but some people produce more than others. The shape of the ear canal, the ratio of ceruminous to sebaceous glands in the ear, and factors such as age and lifestyle can all influence earwax production.
Earwax, also known as cerumen, is a yellowish substance naturally produced by healthy ears. It helps protect the ear canal from bacteria, water, and foreign particles. Earwax also lubricates the ear and helps keep it clean. Although earwax usually moves out of the ear canal naturally, excessive buildup can cause a blockage and make it difficult to hear clearly.
What Happens When Too Much Earwax Builds Up in the Ear?
Normally, earwax gradually moves out of the ear canal through natural processes, sometimes falling out during everyday activities. However, earwax can occasionally accumulate and block the ear canal, a condition known as cerumen impaction.
Cerumen impaction can cause ear pain, pressure, or a feeling of fullness. In some cases, it may also lead to ringing or buzzing in the ears. These symptoms can affect one or both ears.
Common symptoms of earwax impaction include:
- A feeling of fullness or ringing in the ear
- Aching or discomfort in the affected ear
- Dizziness
- Coughing
- Reduced hearing in the affected ear
Best Ways to Clean Your Ears at Home
The safest approach to removing troublesome earwax is to consult a qualified healthcare professional. An audiologist or ear specialist can examine your ears and use appropriate instruments, such as a curette, forceps, or suction device, to remove the blockage safely.
If you choose to manage earwax at home, some options may help soften or remove excess wax. However, home treatments are not suitable for everyone.
- Damp cloth: Using cotton swabs inside the ear canal can push earwax deeper and increase the risk of injury. Use cotton swabs only on the outer ear. Better still, gently wipe the outside of your ear with a warm, damp washcloth.
- Over-the-counter earwax-softening drops: Some pharmacies sell eardrops designed to soften earwax. Depending on the product, ingredients may include glycerin, mineral oil, carbamide peroxide, hydrogen peroxide, or saline.
How to use earwax-softening drops:
- Place the recommended number of drops into your ear, following the product instructions.
- Wait for the specified amount of time before allowing the solution to drain out.
- Follow all package directions and discontinue use if irritation or discomfort occurs.
Do not use earwax-softening drops or attempt to flush your ears at home if you have a perforated eardrum, ear tubes, a history of ear surgery, or signs of an ear infection unless a healthcare professional advises you to do so. If your symptoms persist, consult an ear specialist or hearing professional.
Benefits of Professional Ear Cleaning
Using cotton swabs or other objects inside the ear canal can cause injury, push wax deeper, or damage the eardrum. Professional earwax removal is recommended when wax buildup causes symptoms or cannot be safely managed at home. It can help reduce the risk of ear canal abrasions, eardrum injury, hardened wax impaction, pain, and pressure.
Here are some benefits of professional earwax removal:
- Protecting your ears: One of the main benefits of professional ear cleaning is that a trained provider can assess your ear canal and choose an appropriate removal method. Improper use of cotton swabs and other objects can scratch the ear canal or cause injury. A professional can help minimize these risks.
- Learning how to care for your ears: A hearing professional can explain how to maintain ear hygiene and protect your ears. They can also recommend an appropriate care routine based on your individual needs, helping reduce the risk of complications associated with excessive earwax buildup.
How a Hearing Professional Removes Earwax
The method used to remove earwax depends on the amount of buildup, the condition of the ear canal, and your medical history. Common methods include manual removal with specialized instruments, suction, and irrigation when appropriate.
A typical professional earwax removal procedure may involve the following steps:
- Step 1: You will be asked to sit or lie in a comfortable position, with your head tilted to allow the specialist to examine your ear. A collection basin may be placed beneath your ear if a removal method involving fluid is planned.
- Step 2: The specialist will examine your ear canal and eardrum, then clean the outer ear as needed. If irrigation is appropriate, a suitable irrigating solution may be used.
- Step 3: The specialist may gently adjust the position of your outer ear to improve access to the ear canal.
- Step 4: If irrigation is suitable, the specialist will use a controlled flow of an appropriate solution to help loosen and remove the earwax. The solution and technique will depend on your ear health and the provider’s clinical judgment.
- Step 5: After removal, the specialist will check the ear canal and may provide aftercare instructions to help keep your ears comfortable and healthy.
Not everyone is a suitable candidate for ear irrigation. A professional will determine the safest method for your situation. Do not attempt to irrigate your ears with a hydrogen peroxide and water mixture unless specifically instructed by a qualified healthcare professional.
How Often Should You Clean Your Ears?
Most ears do not require routine cleaning inside the ear canal because earwax usually clears naturally. Over-cleaning can irritate the ear canal and interfere with its natural protective function.
If you experience persistent earwax buildup, discomfort, or reduced hearing, consult a hearing professional rather than trying to remove the wax with objects inserted into your ear. Prompt evaluation can help prevent complications and determine whether earwax is responsible for your symptoms.
El Dorado Hearing can help assess and address earwax concerns. To get started, visit El Dorado Hearing to book an appointment, or call 520-999-2649 for more information.